Federal minister Hanke visits planned logistics center ALPHA
Feb 12, 2026 at 3:48 PM
Matthieu Riou was appointed Managing Director of Grain de Sail Logistics in January 2026, the transport commissioning subsidiary of the Breton company Grain de Sail. The establishment of Grain de Sail Logistics in 2023 marked the beginning of an initiative focused on environmentally friendly transport using a fleet of sailing ships. The company offers regular maritime freight services between Europe and the Americas, with central hubs in the ports of Saint-Malo (France), New York (USA), and Pointe-à-Pitre (Guadeloupe).
Grain de Sail Logistics acts as the exclusive freight service provider for Grain de Sail Shipping, the company’s shipping line. The services include not only transport by sailing ships but also the integration of port operations and the coordination of the entire supply chain. The transport services primarily target companies and freight forwarders in the food, luxury goods, and wine and spirits sectors.
Career Paths
Riou brings extensive experience in logistics and sustainability. He holds a dual master’s degree in Management and International Trade Negotiation from Rennes School of Business. Since joining Grain de Sail in 2017, he has held various positions, including leading export activities for wine and spirits in the USA. In 2021, he was appointed Export Director and took over responsibility for the company’s international operations in 2024.
In this role, Riou initiated the first offering for decarbonized transport with Grain de Sail’s sailing ships as early as 2020. He is responsible for the company’s logistical and maritime operations on several international routes, including port coordination, cargo monitoring, and collaboration with maritime partners.
Riou commented on his appointment: „The last ten years have allowed me to grow professionally and be part of a challenging project driven by strong convictions and dedicated teams. Therefore, this appointment is a continuation with increased responsibility in light of the upcoming challenges.“
Riou’s appointment as Managing Director is part of Grain de Sail Logistics‘ strategy to expand existing and future routes, particularly following a capital increase at the end of 2025. Grain de Sail Logistics plans to strengthen its ability to offer low-carbon maritime solutions that meet customer requirements regarding deadlines, volume, and regularity. In the medium term, the stability of recurring transport flows is to be solidified, and sustainable logistical partnerships with committed supply chain players are to be established, especially in view of the introduction of the future vessel Grain de Sail III, scheduled for 2028.
